Last updated on November 27th, 2023.
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Saltwater fly fishing is considered the holy grail by some. It provides the toughest test to your gear for sure. Here are the best fly reels for saltwater.
When fly fishing in saltwater every part of your gear needs to be a quality product. That’s because saltwater creates corrosion much more easily than freshwater does. Also, the species you target in saltwater are generally stronger. The environment they have to survive in every day gives them extra strength.
Fly rods need to be stronger in saltwater but the most important piece of your equipment when fishing in the ocean is your fly reel.
Quick advice: If you want the ultimate saltwater machine, go for the Tibor Riptide. If you’re on a budget, our favorite choice is the Redington Grande.
Table of Contents:
What to Look for in a Saltwater Fly Reel
Best Fly Reels for Saltwater Quick Answer List
Best Entry Level Saltwater Fly Reels
Best Saltwater Fly Reels 2023: FAQ
Disclaimer: All products in this guide are independently researched by our team. We only recommend products we believe in and never get paid for the reviews. Learn more about our review process here.
What to Look for in a Saltwater Fly Reel
In this guide we want to give you our recommendations for the best fly reels for saltwater. Saltwater fly reels can get really pricey. However, we’ll take a look at entry-level reels, mid-range and high end products.
The most important question you have to ask yourself before making a purchase is: what species do I want to target? Saltwater fly fishing is a vast field. There are so many exciting species you can target on the fly in the ocean. Bonefish for example can be caught on lighter tackle. If you want to target GTs (Giant Trevally) or Tarpon for example you need a bigger reel. And fly fishing for tuna or shark for example requires the best reels on the market.
The best saltwater fly reels stand out because of their drag systems. Another important factor to consider is backing capacity as fish in the ocean often run much further than in rivers for example. In saltwater you should be looking at backing capacities of 200-250 yards as a rule of thumb.
Once you know what species you are going to target, your budget is the decisive factor. Quality saltwater fly reels start at a couple of hundred dollars. Upwards there is really no limit….
Best Fly Reels for Saltwater Quick Answer List
8. ABEL Rove
Best Entry Level Saltwater Fly Reels: $200 – $400
Redington Grande Fly Reel
Key features:
– Available in 5 weight classes
– Sealed Drag
– Made from aircraft grade aluminum
Why we picked it:
The Redington Grande is a great entry level option for your first saltwater fly reel. It comes in a number of different sizes starting with a 5/6/7 wt version. This reel is great for fishing sea trout or sea run cutthroat. The 7/8/9 wt option of the Redington Grande is a good choice if you are targeting bonefish. If you are looking for the strongest version go for the 14+ wt and you’re ready to catch tuna.
In this test, we particularly liked the Redington Grande’s great fully-sealed carbon fiber drag system. Should you require and extra bit of drag you can use your hand by applying pressure to the reel via the palming rim at the bottom of the reel. All versions of the Redington Grande have great backing capacities and come in three colors.
Pros:
– Large arbor for quick line pickup
– Carbon fiber drag
– Lifetime warranty for original owner
Cons:
– On the heavier side
Orvis Hydros Reel
Key features:
– 5 weight options to choose from
– Sealed drag systems
– Large arbor
Why we picked it:
A big name in fly fishing, Orvis has proven its product quality for decades. The Hydros Reel is no exception to this rule and a great choice to get into saltwater fly fishing. Featuring a very large arbor, the Hydros Reel allows you to pick up line quickly. That’s an important feature when saltwater fishing because you often have to strip and retrieve line quickly due to the speed of the fish.
The Orvis Hydros Reel comes with a carbon & stainless drag system. Over the years this reel has become incredibly lightweight. So if you are looking to fish all day that can be a great asset. Comes in various sizes and colors.
Pros:
– Lightweight
– Highly adjustable drag knob
– Very low startup inertia
Cons:
– Not quite as nice as the Orvis mirage from a design perspective
Hardy Ultradisc Fly Reel
Key features:
– Highly adjustable drag
– Lightweight
– Large arbor design
Why we picked it:
Hardy is known around the world for producing some of the most iconic fly reels in the history of the sport: the Duchess, the Princess, Marquis – you get it, British heritage. But in recent years they’ve also turned into a very modern fly fishing brand producing state of the art gear. One of their latest pieces is the Ultradisc reel (read our in-depth review here) which is worth a peak if you’re looking for a large arbor reel (for quick line pickup) that is lightweight and ready for saltwater use.
The Ultradisc comes in a wide range of weight classes covering small creek gear and bigger versions for coastal cutthroat or sea trout fishing. This reel is also a good option if you’re considering using a trout spey setup and are looking for a slightly bigger reel to balance your double-handed setup.
Pros:
– Excellent value for money with the 3000 model starting at $350
– Wide range of sizes
– Lightweight and large arbor
Cons
– This is a lightweight reel and due to that design it can’t be compared to work horses like the Redington Grande
Mid-Range Saltwater Fly Reels: $400 – $600
Ross Evolution FS Fly Reel
Key features:
– Very strong and yet smooth drag system
– Available from #4 to #9
– Large arbor design allows for quick line pickup
Why we picked it:
Ross has a long tradition in building extremely sturdy and long lasting reels and their new Evolution FS reel (read our in-depth review here) is the toughest fly reel they ever built (We’ll see about that). What I really like about this reel is its versatility. Its name (FS) stands for fresh- and saltwater. We’ve put it to the test as a 5/6 version which makes it a great choice for smaller saltwater species such as sea trout or as a trout spey reel for species such as steelhead.
A bit like the Abel Rove, the Ross Evolution FS is a rather heavy reel which means you need a slightly stronger and bigger rod to balance it well. Another aspect of the Evolution FS that I really liked is its drag which is incredibly strong yet features almost no startup inertia.
Pros:
– Excellent drag system without any startup inertia
– Exceptional grip on the handle
– Large arbor design
Cons
– The only weight missing from the Evolution FS is a #12 for the strongest saltwater predators
NAUTILUS CCF-X2
Key features:
– Three sizes and two colors to choose from
– Made from machined aluminum for extra durability
– Cork carbon fiber drag systems
Why we picked it:
Every serious saltwater fly angler has heard of Nautilus reels. They have proven time and time again to be one of the top choices when it comes to reliability and durability. The NAUTILUS CCF-X2 is no exception to this rule. It has been in the market for a few years now and can still easily keep up with the best saltwater fly reels in the market.
The NAUTILUS CCF-X2 is available in three sizes: 6/8 (great reel for sea trout or small bonefish), 8/9/10 (excellent salmon reel) and 10/11/12 if you are going for the biggest saltwater species such as Tarpons for example. The one thing that stands out in the NAUTILUS CCF-X2 is it’s drag. It’s highly adjustable and incredibly strong. If you go for a Nautilus you can be sure it’s going to last a lifetime.
Pros:
– Excellent break system
– Beautiful, timeless design
– Ultra-large arbor for excellent line pick up speed
Cons:
– A little heavy (depending on the rod and reel combination)
Bauer RX 2
Key features:
– Weight classes: 7 – colors: 3
– Manufactured in the USA
– Disc drag system
Why we picked it:
The Bauer RX is a great reel that barely makes the mid-range section. Depending on the size you choose this fly reel should be in the high-end section. We particularly like the Bauer RX which is a great choice for sea trout or sea-run cutthroat fishing. Machined from aerospace grad bar stock aluminum this reel is built to last
If you want to target bigger saltwater species, no problem. The Bauer RX covers the whole range. However, the upper end of the weight range (11/12/13) comes with a hefty prices tag of $925.
Pros:
– Very durable
– Strong drag
– American made
Cons:
– Getting the adjustment of the drag right takes a bit of experience
High-End Saltwater Fly Reels: $600+
Tibor Riptide
Key features:
– 9-11wt
– 8 colors to choose from
– Made in the USA
Why we picked it:
There can’t be a list of the best fly reels for saltwater without a reel from Tibor. The names of the reels created by Ted Juracsik are music to the ears of saltwater fly fishermen and women: Riptide, Gulfstream, Everglades or Billy Pate Bonefish. The Riptide we chose for this list comes as a 9/10/11 weight. It is an excellent choice to target species such as Tarpon, Dorado, Stripers or big Salmon. The Riptide can hold 200 yards of 30lb backing, and even 300 yards of 65lb power pro super slick backing.
The Riptide comes in a large variety of colors and finishings. As a little extra you would expect from a reel in that price range, you can have your name screwed onto the reel on a little plate. Hence this reel also makes for an amazing gift.
Pros:
– Incredibly sturdy
– American made
– Excellent, highly adjustable drag
Cons:
– On the heavier side
Abel Rove
Key features:
– Made in the USA
– Cork drag
– Endless customisation options
Why we picked it:
If you’re on the lookout for a sturdy saltwater workhorse that will not let you down in the toughest conditions, the Abel Rove (read our in-depth review here) is worth a look. Right away you can tell by its built quality and weight that the Rove is made for heavy duty adventures. We fished it as the 7/9 for stripers on a single handed rod and on a #9 double handed rod for Atlantic salmon (where its weight actually helps to balance a two handed setup).
What really sets the Rove apart from all other reels in this buyer’s guide is the fact that it offers almost endless customisation options. Starting with the color, handle design and finish, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. This way you can make sure you’ll show up with an almost unique reel to any saltwater trip. Yes, the Rove doesn’t come cheap starting at $745 but boy, this (made in the USA) reel is one tough competitor.
Pros:
– American made
– Drag is second to none
– Highly customisable
Cons:
– Handle is on the smaller side
– Reel pouch is not premium
Taking Care of your Reel
As you can see from our saltwater fly reels review, a saltwater reel can be an investment. Whatever reel you end up getting, you should give it a bit of care. The most important thing is to rinse it with fresh water after every time you use it in saltwater.
The same holds true if you want to extend the lifespan of your line and backing. At least after every other use you should wipe the salt off with a wet piece of cloth and make sure the line and backing can dry.
In addition to this basic care, each reel needs a bit of maintenance every once in a while. Since the drag system and sealing of every fly reel is a bit different you should refer to the manual of the reel you end up getting.
We hope this guide has helped you make a solid decision. No matter which reel you choose, we wish you a great time at the water.
Saltwater Fly Reels Review: FAQ
Can I use any fly reel for saltwater fly fishing?
Not all fly reels are designed for saltwater use. Look for reels with corrosion-resistant materials and sealed drag systems specifically built to withstand the harsh saltwater environment.
What size saltwater fly reel do I need?
he size of your saltwater fly reel should match the line weight and the species you intend to target. Larger fish or heavier lines require correspondingly larger reels for optimal performance.
Are sealed drag systems necessary for saltwater fly reels?
Yes, sealed drag systems are crucial for preventing saltwater and debris from entering the reel. This feature ensures smooth and reliable drag performance, especially in challenging saltwater conditions.
Can I switch between different lines on the same saltwater reel?
Many saltwater fly reels allow for easy line changes. However, it’s essential to check the reel’s specifications and capacity to ensure compatibility with various line weights.
How do I maintain a saltwater fly reel?
After each saltwater use, rinse the reel thoroughly with freshwater to remove salt and debris. Periodically, apply a light coating of reel lubricant to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion.
What material is best for a saltwater fly reel?
Materials like anodized aluminum and stainless steel are commonly used in high-quality saltwater fly reels due to their corrosion resistance. These materials ensure the reel’s longevity in saltwater environments.
Are large arbor reels better for saltwater fly fishing?
Yes, large arbor reels are generally preferred for saltwater fly fishing. They offer faster line retrieval, reduce line memory, and provide more consistent drag performance—key factors when dealing with powerful and fast-swimming saltwater species.
Read more of our Gear Guides here:
Ultimate Guide: Best Wading Jackets
Buyer’s Guide Best Wading Boots
A Guide to the Best Sling Pack
A Guide to the Best Fly Fishing Starter Kits
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